TAMING THE SRU
TAMING THE SRU - October 17, 2018 - By Cathers Andrew
Highlighted Article: High, K., Brywczynski J., Han J. Cricothyrotomy in Helicopter Emergency Medical Service Transport. Air Medical Journal , Volume 37 , Issue 1 , 51 – 53
LEARNING POINTS
Overall, I think this article provides further support of the importance of cricothyrotomy skills and maintenance in our environment. I think the biggest takeaway for me (as well as the authors) was the potential weakness of having two different methods of cricothyrotomy. This requires providers to learn and maintain both, and also requires additional decision-making in high-stress, time-critical situations. In addition, each provider also has to learn how to assist the other provider in performing either of the procedures. Many experts advocate for the superiority of the surgical (scalpel-finger-bougie) method of cricothyrotomy over the percutaneous approach, and I would have to agree. In this very small study this method did seem more effective, as well. It should always be a goal to look for the most reproducible and effective method of performing a procedure, and then train that exact way as much as possible. Not only will this reduce cognitive load during these situations, it will also lead to a higher level of proficiency in this procedure for all crew members.